All you need to know about traffic signs in India

Do you want to make the roads safer? A straightforward way to make the streets safer is following road safety signs. They are designed so you can easily understand them, even from a moving vehicle. Understanding traffic signs is essential when applying for your driving licence.

Types of traffic signs in India:

There are three significant categories of road safety signs in India. These are classified as regulatory signs, cautionary signs, and informatory signs. Depending on the type of the signs, they impart a lot of helpful information and make your journey safe and enjoyable.

1. Regulatory signs

These are the most important signs to follow, and failing to follow these can lead to traffic fines. A traffic sign under this category aims to provide seamless movement of vehicles and ensure that drivers and pedestrians are aware of speed limits, stop signs, etc.

Here are some examples of regulatory signs and their meanings.

• Stop:

Road users should immediately stop upon seeing this sign.

• No parking:

Road users must avoid parking in these designated areas.

• Speed limit:

Road users must adhere to the prescribed speed limits.

• No entry:

The sign denotes that entry is prohibited for all vehicle types.

• Horn prohibited:

Road users should refrain from honking in specific areas, such as schools or hospitals.

2. Cautionary signs:

A traffic sign under the cautionary category usually warns vehicle owners about potential road hazards. These signs include information about turns, curves, and pedestrian crossings, such as:

• Right-hand curve:

It signifies an upcoming right-hand turn.

• Left hairpin bend:

It signifies an upcoming sharp left turn.

• Steep ascent:

It signifies a steep incline for the driver to use the appropriate gear.

• Narrow bridge:

It signifies that the width of the upcoming bridge is narrower than the current road.

• Pedestrian crossing:

Road users must slow down or completely halt to allow the movement of pedestrians.

3. Informatory signs

As the name might give away a bit, these signs offer information to the users about medical centres, fuel stations, resting places, etc. These signs aim at making your travel that much more convenient. Here are a few examples.

• Advance direction sign:

These signs show the direction and distance to upcoming destinations.

• Petrol pump:

It indicates the upcoming petrol station.

• Hospital:

It indicates the upcoming hospital.

• Eating place:

It indicates the upcoming eating place(s) or restaurants.

• Tunnel ahead:

It indicates the upcoming tunnel.

Conclusion

A traffic sign can be more than helpful and informative for road users. Going through the entire list a few times will ensure that you are aware of the different signs and how they might positively impact your travel. Everyone must follow these.